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Introduction to the Judiciary

Due to the large caseload in Juvenile Court, one Judge cannot hear every case that is brought before the Court. Accordingly, Tennessee law provides that the Judge may appoint one or more Magistrates to preside over cases. In conducting the proceedings, Magistrates have the same powers as Judges. Any decision made by a Magistrate concerning any preliminary matter is final and not reviewable by the Judge, except on the Court's own motion. Any final decision made by a Magistrate may be appealed to the Judge by any party; the party wishing to appeal must file a "Request for Rehearing" with the Juvenile Court Clerk's office within five (5) judicial days of the date on which the Magistrate's Order was stamped "FILED" by the Clerk.